The General Henry Knox Museum invites the community to its 13th Annual Boots on the Ground event. This Memorial Weekend celebration honors veterans, military personnel, and their families. The event will take place on Sunday, May 24, from 12 to 2 p.m., on the grounds of Montpelier, which is the big white house just off Route 1 at the turn to Saint George in Thomaston, according to a Knox Museum news release. Admission is free, and everyone is welcome to attend.

The festivities will commence and end with patriotic ceremonies to commemorate the importance of the holiday weekend and honor the service and sacrifice of America's armed forces.

This year’s keynote speaker will be Brigadier General (Ret.) William J. Leszczynski, Jr., Leszczynski served on active duty for more than 28 years. He commanded an infantry battalion, a joint task force in Honduras and the 75th Ranger Regiment. He and his wife, Jennifer, have been married for almost 53 years and have two children and four grandchildren. Their son, Peter, currently commands the 2d Ranger Battalion.

"Come join us, to hear Bill speak about his experience as a Ranger. RLTW," said the news release.

Maine Paws for Veterans will also be in attendance.

After the ceremonies, Tenants Harbor Masons, and Knox Museum personnel will serve a free lunch.

Montpelier will be open for free admission for veterans and active-duty military and their families. Two tours will be offered, at 1 p.m. and 1:30 p.m.

The event will occur rain or shine under the big white tent on the front lawn.

Knox Museum is a proud participant in the National Endowment for the Arts Blue Star Museum program, offering free admission to Montpelier for active military. Montpelier will be open for weekly tours, Tuesday through Saturday from 10 A.M. to 4 P.M. from Memorial Day to Labor Day, with reduced hours through Columbus Day.

For more information, please contact Delores Allen at 207-354-8062 or dallen@knoxmuseum.org.